The Toilsome Journey of Marbles and Stones

A general analysis of the use of marble in Ravenna between the 5th and the 6th century will consider in a Mediterranean perspective the modes in which marble and stone material were acquired and utilised. Furthermore, depending on the periods and patrons with adequate economic and cultural resources, it is possible to distinguish different phenomena in supplying and using marbles for the public buildings of the city, comprehending both spolia and commissioned artefacts. The political situation and the range of economic activities influenced time by time the architectural and decorative choices, attempting adaptations to the models and creating local styles.